2025 Memoir Retreat
A Cosy Memoir Writing Retreat in the Heart of Devon
July 7-11, 2025
Would you like to give yourself five interruption-free days to focus on your memoir in an environment designed to help you write?
Time away from it all, in the peaceful English countryside with personalised help from me, plus tea and cake and no chores?
Of course you would!
Becky
Marnie, you continue to make me believe I can do this, that I am good at it, and that what I have to say is important.
Hayley
It's been part of my rebirth! Thank you for your fantastic wisdom and guidance, Marnie – forever grateful to you
I would love you to come and join me at Retreats For You, based at The Court, a charming 1600s thatched house nestled in the quintessentially English village of Sheepwash, North Devon.
We'll have an email chat before the retreat to understand where your memoir writing is at, and what you hope to achieve. You are welcome whether you're a beginner or already writing. Then, once you arrive, you'll find everything arranged to make writing as easy as possible. Your days will be a comfortable mix of writing sessions, practical workshops as required, group discussions, and an optional one-to-one with me, with plenty of free time for afternoon naps, walks, quiet writing and more naps! You can write in your room, join others in the sitting room or find your focus in one of the many writing nooks available. Or if the sun shines, find a spot in the garden – the choice is yours.
I've spent the last 17 years helping people tell their life stories, working with over 300 memoirists from around the world. What I've learned is that everyone has a story worth telling, and everyone deserves to have their story heard. As your memoir mentor for these four days, I'll help you find the best way to tell yours.
Our group discussions are always enlightening, as sharing experiences with fellow memoirists often sparks new insights into our own writing.
Some writers come to me with just an idea, others with hundreds of pages already written. Some want to write for their family, others dream of publication. Whatever your goals, whatever stage you're at, I'll meet you there and help you move forward.
Michelle
I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Marnie at the memoir writing retreat in 2021. She’s so easy to talk to, non-judgemental, has a sharp sense of humour, and so much empathy; all qualities that make her perfect for coaching memoir writing.
There are only nine places on this retreat, which sells out every year. Limiting the spots ensures everyone gets personal attention.
I understand how personal this journey is, which is why I also offer optional one-to-one sessions (£65) on this retreat. In a 50-minute session, we can dive deep into your specific project and address any challenges you're facing.
What I love most about these retreats is watching writers discover new depths in their stories, find their confidence, and leave with clear direction, renewed enthusiasm and new memoir writing friends! Whether you're writing for personal satisfaction or aiming for a wider audience, you'll find the perfect balance of expert guidance, quiet writing time, and supportive community.
With all the cooking and cleaning taken care of, you can give your memoir the time and attention it deserves. It's a genuine break from daily responsibilities, surrounded by supportive fellow writers and expert guidance. This is your chance to make real progress with your memoir, in a relaxed setting where you can truly focus on your writing.
Frances
Those four days on the memoir writing retreat with Marnie were unforgettable, deeply enjoyable and like a ‘time out of time’. It was so valuable to meet and share with other memoirists in supportive and comfortable surroundings. Marnie ensured we all had personal time with her.
If you are serious about writing your memoir, I recommend taking an enjoyable break and a fresh look at your work on a retreat with Marnie
What's Included
- Private room with comfortable bed and writing space. En-suites are available at a small extra cost - first come, first served
- All meals, snacks, and wine with dinner
- Group sessions tailored to participants' needs
- Abundant quiet time for writing
- Opportunities to share your work with fellow memoirists
- A supportive community of writers
Access to all house amenities including quiet enclosed garden, little summer house and mini home gym in a useful studio which has a big TV, good broadband, and space to exercise.
Your Investment
The total retreat cost of £950 represents exceptional value, breaking down into:
- £600 for accommodation and all meals, including wine with dinner
- £350 for expert tuition and personal guidance
- £65 for a 50 minute one-to-one session with Marnie (optional)
**Early Bird Special** Book before May 1 and enjoy a reduced rate of £900.
Please note that during the retreat, sharing the details of your story and your writing is entirely optional. Everything that is shared at the retreat remains confidential. In sessions where memoirists do want to share their writing, Marnie will facilitate these with firm guidelines that ensure everyone feels heard and appreciated.
Please note ALMOST HALF THE PLACES ON THIS RETREAT HAVE ALREADY GONE, so contact Debbie at Retreats For You, as soon as possible to register your interest. You can email her [email protected] or WhatsApp (07949) 052 208.
